By Jamie Collins, Beauty Expert
In the ever-evolving world of beauty products, finding the perfect mascara can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless formulations promising to lengthen, volumize, curl, and define, consumers often cycle through product after product, never quite finding “the one.” As someone who has tested hundreds of mascaras throughout my career, I understand this struggle intimately. Today, I’m diving deep into one of drugstore beauty’s most talked-about products: Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Luscious Washable Mascara in Blackest Black.
This comprehensive review examines every aspect of this popular mascara—from its unique brush design to its formula, application technique, wear time, removal process, and overall value. Drawing from extensive personal testing and analysis of hundreds of customer experiences, I’ll help you determine if this might be your holy grail mascara or just another tube destined for the beauty graveyard.
First Impressions and Packaging
The Maybelline Lash Sensational comes in the brand’s signature pink packaging—a metallic rose-gold tube that feels surprisingly premium for its drugstore price point. The cylindrical tube has a satisfying weight and doesn’t feel flimsy like some budget mascaras. At 0.32 fl. oz., it provides a standard amount of product that should last approximately three months with regular use (assuming you’re following proper mascara hygiene and replacement guidelines).
The standout visual feature is undoubtedly the curved brush applicator, which immediately signals this mascara’s unique selling proposition: a fanning effect that promises to capture and coat every lash from root to tip.
The Innovative Brush Design
Maybelline’s marketing emphasizes the “fan brush” with its ten layers of bristles, and this is indeed where the Lash Sensational differentiates itself from competitors. The brush features a curved silicone wand with bristles of varying lengths—shorter on one side and longer on the other. This design isn’t merely aesthetic; it serves a specific function in application.
The curved shape is engineered to follow the natural curvature of your lash line, reaching those difficult corner lashes that straight brushes often miss. The bristle variation allows for versatility in application—the shorter side deposits more product for volume, while the longer side combs through for definition and separation.
However, this specialized design comes with a learning curve. Several users report that the brush holds quite a lot of product, which can lead to over-application and clumping if not used carefully. One reviewer noted, “The brush is more of a silicone comb and holds much too much mascara to apply to your eye.” Another mentioned, “The length and shape of the brush can easily lead to mistakes when applying.”
For best results, users should take their time during application, and many recommend wiping excess product from the brush before applying—a small inconvenience for the dramatic results it can deliver when used correctly.
Formula Analysis
The Blackest Black shade lives up to its name, delivering an intensely pigmented formula that creates true black lashes rather than the greyish tint some mascaras develop. The formula sits in the middle ground between wet and dry—initially quite wet upon application, allowing for smooth coating of the lashes, but drying down to a manageable finish that holds curl throughout the day.
The mascara contains conditioning ingredients intended to keep lashes soft rather than brittle, though some users did report a slight stiffening effect. The formula builds well, allowing for customizable coverage from natural-looking enhancement with one coat to dramatic, voluminous lashes with multiple applications.
In terms of scent, the formula is pleasantly neutral without the chemical smell that plagues some competitors, although one outlier review did mention a chemical odor and eye irritation—a reminder that individual sensitivities can vary widely.
Application Experience and Performance
Ease of Application
The application experience with Lash Sensational reveals a key truth about quality mascaras: technique matters. Users who reported the best results consistently mentioned taking their time with application:
“What I tend to do is one application, then stop and let the lashes dry a bit once I finally have them the way I want. From there adding additional coats until desired look.”
The precision tip of the brush allows for targeted application, particularly beneficial for those with sparse or fine lashes who need to coat each individual lash for maximum effect. Many users with aging lashes particularly praised this aspect:
“I’ve tried a multitude of mascaras, including the high-end brands as price is no object when it comes to feeling pretty and your best. This one seems to do the trick. As you age, you not only lose elasticity in your skin but the length and number of lashes.”
Volumizing and Lengthening Effects
The dual benefits of both volume and length are frequently mentioned across reviews, making this a versatile option for various lash needs:
“One coat looks awesome but if you do 2 coats your lashes are HUGE AND BEAUTIFUL!”
“Big on length, not so much on definition. It’s a little clumpy, but not bad. If you want long lashes, this is a good one.”
This versatility allows users to customize their look—from a natural enhancement for daily wear to a more dramatic effect for special occasions.
Layering Capability
The formula’s buildability is consistently praised, though with an important caveat: timing is crucial. The mascara works best when applied in thin layers with drying time between coats. Rushing through multiple coats without drying time leads to the clumping that some negative reviews mention.
When applied properly, multiple reviewers noted they could achieve a false lash effect without the hassle of adhesives:
“Best mascara I have ever used!! No need for fake eyelashes with this mascara!!”
Curl Holding Power
Reviews on curl-holding capabilities were mixed. While many users reported excellent curl retention throughout the day, a few noted weight issues:
“Does not hold a curl. After trying to add another coat it gets clumpy and weighs the lashes down.”
This discrepancy likely stems from both application technique and individual lash type. Those with naturally straighter lashes may need to use a separate lash curler before application and allow the first coat to dry completely before adding more product to prevent weighing down the curl.
Wear Performance
Longevity
The Lash Sensational demonstrates impressive staying power, with most users reporting all-day wear without flaking or smudging—a key advantage over higher-priced competitors:
“I think this is a great product, I especially love that it doesn’t flake onto my face and give me raccoon eyes (from rubbing my eye) before the day is over like I used to get with Clinique mascara.”
“I’m a repeat customer. It doesn’t flake. I feel like it extends my lashes. And it stays on for at least a good eight hours.”
This longevity is particularly impressive given that this is the washable, non-waterproof version of the product.
Smudge Resistance
Despite not being marketed as waterproof, the mascara demonstrates remarkable smudge resistance. Multiple reviewers noted that it holds up well to watery eyes and even light moisture exposure:
“It washes off easily, although it doesn’t run if my eyes water throughout the day.”
However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a waterproof formula, and those seeking absolute water resistance for swimming or extremely humid conditions should opt for the waterproof version instead.
Natural Appearance vs. Dramatic Effect
The versatility of this mascara allows it to transition between natural and dramatic looks depending on application:
“Really leaves gives your lashes volume without the clumping look… looks natural.”
“It truly feels soft on your lashes.”
For those seeking a more natural look, a single coat applied with the longer bristles creates definition and subtle enhancement. Users wanting drama can build up to three coats, using both sides of the wand to maximize volume and definition.
Removal Process
The removal experience revealed the most significant divergence in user experiences. As a washable mascara, it should theoretically remove easily with regular cleanser, but reviews indicate a more complex reality:
“While my eyelashes are fabulous and very long, this stuff is very difficult to get off. I even use the micellar water, which is supposed to remove EVERYTHING.”
“I was very happy with the added depth of my eyelashes after using the New York Lash Sensation mascara but was disappointed that it was not truly washable as described. Hot water and soap will not remove this mascara.”
Conversely, others found removal straightforward:
“Washes off easy.”
“It comes off really easily with any eye makeup remover.”
This discrepancy suggests that removal success depends on the specific cleansing products and techniques used. For optimal removal, an oil-based makeup remover or cleansing balm appears most effective, followed by a gentle cleanser. Those using only micellar water or standard face wash may struggle with complete removal.
The tenacious wear that makes it resistant to smudging throughout the day also means it requires more deliberate removal—a tradeoff many users found acceptable given the performance benefits.
Comparison to High-End Alternatives
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of this mascara is its performance relative to luxury alternatives. Multiple reviewers specifically compared it to prestige brands:
“This is such a nice Mascara, it is easy to apply!”
“This is a good one.”
“I used to use only ‘They’re Real’ mascara by Benefit and pay $24. Lash Sensational is comparable to them at a much affordable price.”
“I have bought every high end $25 mascara and this one is much, much better!”
This value proposition—drugstore price with high-end performance—is what elevates this product from merely good to exceptional in the mascara marketplace.
Long-Term Use Considerations
Several long-term users noted changes in the formula over time:
“It is still good for the first week but seems to get thick and clumpy too quickly.”
“Like most mascaras it’s awesome when you first open it but starts to cause clumps a month or so after usage.”
This is fairly common with mascaras as air exposure changes the formula consistency, but it appears to occur somewhat more rapidly with this product. Using techniques to prevent air introduction (fully closing the tube after each use, avoiding pumping the wand) can help extend the optimal performance period.
Special Considerations for Different Lash Types
The responses to this mascara varied somewhat based on the user’s natural lash characteristics:
Fine/Thin Lashes
Those with naturally fine or thin lashes generally reported the most dramatic transformation: “My lashes thinned out as I got older and at 46 I lost hope… UNTIL NOW!”
Short Lashes
Users with shorter lashes praised the lengthening effect but sometimes struggled with the brush size: “With my fine short lashes, I’m always trying to find mascara that lives up to the buzzwords in its name.”
Asian Lashes
One reviewer specifically mentioned challenges with the brush size for Asian lash types: “I would of liked the wand to be a little thinner but that is because I am Asian with shorter lashes.”
Already Full Lashes
Those blessed with naturally full lashes found the additional volume sometimes overwhelming: “If you like spider leg eye lashes then cool but I like to have more then 8 lashes at a time and this brush/formula sort of clumps them all together.”
This suggests that the mascara may be most transformative for those with fine, sparse, or aging lashes rather than those who already have naturally full lashes.
Ethical Considerations
One reviewer raised an important ethical consideration not often discussed in mascara reviews: “The downside is that I usually prefer natural products/ingredients, and I wish the company did not sell in main land China (where animal testing is mandatory).”
For consumers prioritizing cruelty-free beauty, this is a relevant factor in the purchasing decision, though it reflects more on Maybelline’s broader business practices than this specific product.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
At approximately $8-10 (with variations depending on retailer), the Lash Sensational delivers exceptional value. When compared to high-end mascaras priced at $25-30 that offer similar or even inferior performance, the cost advantage becomes clear. Even among drugstore competitors, the performance-to-price ratio stands out, making this one of the best values in the mascara category.
The Bottom Line: Is It Worth Trying?
After analyzing hundreds of user experiences alongside professional testing standards, the verdict on Maybelline Lash Sensational Luscious Washable Mascara is clear: this is an exceptional product with a few manageable quirks.
Strengths:
- Truly blackest black pigmentation
- Impressive lengthening and volumizing capabilities
- Versatility from natural to dramatic looks
- Exceptional staying power without flaking
- Comparable performance to prestige brands at a fraction of the cost
Considerations:
- Learning curve with the specialized brush
- More challenging removal than some washable formulas
- Formula thickens faster than ideal over time
- May be too dramatic for those who already have full lashes
For beauty enthusiasts seeking dramatic lash transformation without the premium price tag, this mascara represents one of the best values in the beauty aisle. The occasional challenges with application and removal are minor compared to the outstanding results it delivers when used correctly.
When assessing any beauty product, it’s essential to consider not just whether it’s objectively “good” but whether it’s right for your specific needs and preferences. The Maybelline Lash Sensational excels for those seeking:
- Dramatic length and volume
- True black color
- All-day wear without flaking
- Affordable luxury
It may not be ideal for those prioritizing:
- Absolute ease of removal
- Foolproof application
- Ultra-natural results
- Strictly cruelty-free brands
As with any beauty product, individual results will vary based on application technique, natural lash characteristics, and personal preferences. However, the overwhelming pattern across hundreds of reviews suggests that for most users, this mascara delivers exceptional results that rival or exceed products many times its price.
The final word? This is a standout performer in the drugstore beauty category that deserves a place in your makeup collection—especially if you’ve been disappointed by luxury mascaras that failed to live up to their promises. Just remember to take your time with application, invest in a good oil-based makeup remover, and prepare for compliments on your suddenly dramatic lashes.
Jamie Collins is a beauty industry veteran with over 15 years of experience testing and reviewing cosmetic products across all price points.
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